RNA-seq of C17.2 neuronal progenitor cells exposed to cerium oxide nanoparticles during cell differentiation

We used a next-generation sequencing approach to understand the effects of antioxidant cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2) on neuronal stem cell differentiation. As a model we used the murine neuronal progenitor cell line, C17.2, which upon differentiation, is able to generate a mixed culture of neurons and neuroglial cells. As additional controls we used N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a conventional antioxidant and samarium doped cerium oxide nanoparticles (Sm-CeO2), as particle controls (as they bear a reduced antioxidant potential as compared to CeO2 alone). We had a time series approach and we investigates effects after 1, 4 and 7 days during differentiation. We revealed that CeO2 reduce axonal guidance signalling, neuronal differentiation and neuroglial differentiation after 7 days, thus having a negative effect on neuronal development. Overall, these effects are likely due to the antioxidant properties of nanoceria, although some evidence for a particle effect was also provided as indicated by the interference with cytoskeletal as well as integrin signaling genes both by nanoceria and Sm-doped nanoceria, but not by NAC.